Former France star Frank Leboeuf has urged Arsenal to consider signing Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, a reported £55 million Chelsea target, to replace the injured William Saliba. Saliba, a key figure in Arsenal's Premier League title-winning campaign, suffered a back injury during France's World Cup semi-final against Spain and could miss four to five months of the new season, potentially requiring surgery.
Saliba's injury blow
Saliba, 25, was a rock at the back alongside Gabriel Magalhaes for Arsenal last season. He started for France at the World Cup, but disaster struck in the first half of the semi-final against Spain when he went down unchallenged, crying out 'my back is gone'. He had been nursing a back issue throughout the tournament. Reports in France suggest he could be sidelined for up to five months, a devastating blow for Arsenal's title defence.
Leboeuf's call for action
Speaking to Metro via Freebets.com, Leboeuf said: 'Saliba is one of the best centre-backs in the world right now and when you have a player like that out for four or five months, of course it's a concern. Arsenal have built so much on their defensive structure — it's the foundation of what Arteta does. To be without him for that long at the start of the season is not easy. You would think they have to do something. Whether it's a permanent signing or a loan, they have to have cover because you cannot afford to go into a season without a solution at that level when you want to fight for the title.'
Lacroix as a solution
While Arsenal are interested in Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa, Leboeuf has highlighted Lacroix, Saliba's international teammate, as a potential option. The 26-year-old has impressed at Crystal Palace since joining from Wolfsburg in 2024 and is reportedly seeking a new challenge. Chelsea have identified him as a top target, with Palace demanding at least £55 million. Leboeuf said: 'Lacroix is a good player — I know him, I know what he can do. He's French, he's a good defender, he has experience. Whether he's the right level for Arsenal fighting for the title is the question. Arsenal need somebody who can come straight in, be at the top level on day one and not take three months to adapt. If Lacroix can do that, then why not? He knows the Premier League, he knows the pace of the game, which is important. But it would have to be the right price and the right fit for what Arteta needs next to Gabriel.'
Impact on Arsenal's season
Arsenal's defensive stability has been key to their success under Mikel Arteta. With Saliba out, the Gunners face an early test of their depth. Leboeuf warned: 'Arsenal are probably the most stable of the top clubs right now — that's a real strength. But if Saliba is out, that stability is tested immediately.' The club must decide whether to pursue a permanent signing or a loan to cover the gap.
